Hikeawassee
Our Mission
The Hikeawassee Shuttle Program connects Appalachian Trail hikers with Hiawassee’s hotels, restaurants, shops, and services — free of charge. The shuttle runs during the 10-week AT Northbound (NOBO) thru-hiker "bubble," starting around the end of February and ending around the beginning on May. We host a hiker feed cookout every Monday at lunch in the center of Hiawassee.
Four years old and 100% volunteer-run, this service strengthens our local economy while providing hikers a warm welcome and access to the resources they need.
In 2024 alone, hikers spent over $150,000 in Hiawassee because of this service — supporting hotel/motel tax revenue, local option sales tax, and small businesses during the slow winter season.
Global Reach from a Small Town
Around 2,000 Appalachian Trail hikers use the Hikeawassee shuttle each year. These hikers come from all 50 states and dozens of countries. They are connected with the wider hiking community through word of mouth, and hiking enthusiasts from around the world follow their thru hike journeys on social media.
Our Goal & Vision
Our shuttle bus, donated by Towns County, suffered a blown motor during the 2025 season and must be replaced. To close the gap in current funding, we need to raise $4,500 per year for 5 years.This will allow us to purchase, operate, and maintain a new shuttle for Appalachian Trail hikers.
With the purchase of a modern, reliable passenger van for use in 2026 and beyond, Hikeawassee can grow from a NOBO thru hiker shuttle to a community resource for year-round ecotourism. Our vision for the future includes adding services for:
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Local hiking groups
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Section hikers
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SOBO thru hikers
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